Kaakoefeningen

Kaakoefeningen are exercises designed to strengthen and relax the muscles around the jaw. They are commonly used in dentistry, physiotherapy and orofacial therapy to improve jaw mobility, reduce muscle tension, and support recovery from temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD/TMJ), bruxism, or jaw surgery. When performed correctly and as part of a supervised plan, these exercises can help with pain, restricted opening, and abnormal jaw movements.

Typical kaakoefeningen include exercises for range of motion, isometric strengthening, and jaw protrusion or lateral movements. Open-and-close movements involve slowly opening the mouth as wide as comfortable, then closing slowly, usually several repetitions. Isometric exercises may involve gently pressing the lower jaw against resistance from the hand or fingers placed under the chin, holding for several seconds. Lateral movements guide the lower jaw from side to side, holding briefly on each side. Protrusion exercises push the lower jaw forward against light resistance, and relaxation stretches encourage the jaw muscles to release, for example by keeping the tongue against the palate while relaxing the jaw. Some plans combine posture and breathing techniques and advise avoiding teeth clenching and wide jaw movements during flare-ups.

Safety and guidelines emphasize gradual, pain-free effort. If an activity increases pain, it should be paused and professional advice sought from a dentist, maxillofacial therapist, or physical therapist. Exercises are usually tailored to the individual and introduced gradually. People with acute dental infection, jaw fracture, severe arthritis, or recent jaw surgery should follow professional instructions and any listed restrictions.

See also: Temporomandibular joint disorders, bruxism, orofacial therapy, physical therapy.